Pentoxifylline: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Pentoxifylline Extended-release Tablet is indicated for the treatment of patients with intermittent claudication on the basis of chronic occlusive arterial disease of the limbs.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label edd4dbbc…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Nausea | 28.8% |
| Dizziness | 11.9% |
| Side effect | 9.6% |
| Dyspepsia | 9.6% |
| Belching/flatus/bloating | 9% |
| Headache | 6.2% |
| Drowsiness | 5.8% |
| Vomiting | 4.5% |
| Abdominal discomfort | 4% |
| Diarrhea | 3.4% |
| Flushing | 2.3% |
| Insomnia | 2.3% |
| Blurred vision | 2.3% |
| Angina/chest pain | 2.2% |
| Arrhythmia/palpitation | 1.7% |
| Agitation/nervousness | 1.7% |
| Tremor | 0.8% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
Pentoxifylline Extended-release Tablet is indicated for the treatment of patients with intermittent claudication on the basis of chronic occlusive arterial disease of the limbs. Pentoxifylline Extended-release Tablet can improve function and symptoms but is not intended to replace more definitive therapy, such as surgical bypass, or removal of arterial obstructions when treating peripheral vascular disease.
Conditions associated with Pentoxifylline in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pentoxifylline used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Pentoxifylline?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Pentoxifylline. Individual risk varies.
Does Pentoxifylline require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Pentoxifylline.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.